adidas/EA Sports Superstar: Bryce Taylor

The PAC-10 didn‘t have the year it is known to have but with a influx of some very talented players, the competition level will be much higher this time next year. Those close to the Oregon program believe they have the right pieces in place to return to the top. One of the reasons why is adidas/EA Sports Superstar Bryce Taylor.

Taylor, the No. 60 player on the Rivals150, is one of the fine players coming to Eugene next season. He’s had a chance to meet some of his fellow freshmen already. He met fellow signee Maarty Leunen (No. 72 on the Rivals150) while on his official visit.

The two also played together at the USA Festival in Colorado last summer. Those close to Duck basketball believe the duo, along with Chamberlain Oguchi (No. 81 on the Rivals150) will help ease the loss of All-American Luke Jackson.

The trio will be a fine compliment to former McDonalds All American Aaron Brooks and the frontcourt depth currently on roster, giving Ernie Kent a very formidable roster to work with come PAC-10 time next season. In fact, some have compared Taylor to former Duck great and current NBA player Fred Jones in terms of sheer athleticism.

Taylor said he’s already talked to Brooks about getting the entire team together on their own during the summer and spending time working as a unit. Taylor said he learned that from former Duck Luke Ridnour.

“I remember reading somewhere that he got the guys together and worked out earlier in the mornings and late at nights,” Taylor said. “Luke said they took the game seriously during the summer and then they went on to have great season. Hopefully we’ll bring that level of intensity this summer ourselves.”

The Encino, California native said the style and atompshere was one of the main reasons why he’s headed to Eugene.

“When I was narrowing my choices down, Oregon just fit me. It was the most comfortable for me. Everyone there was like family. The relationship I made with the players was one of the biggest things. They were all pretty cool and laid back. Plus, the coaches got along really well with my parents," he said.

"It’s just a good school with a great style of play that gets up and down the court. That’s where I’m at my best.”